Appreciated your note. I think once you've discussed it a few times with your Dad, better to leave it alone. Most folks know what's happening to their health. My Mom was a nurse; she cared for people that had abused their bodies in this way.
My Dad was a constant nag, though he desired good for her.
Who knows, maybe she would have quit on her own if he hadn't kept at it.
I think that whatever needs changing in our lives -- usually the realization has to come from within. As Americans we are taught to reject criticism, even constructive criticism.
What's confession anyway -- somebody told me that the greek word means to agree, so that confession actually means to agree with God about our state, behavior or actions. It may be hard sometimes, but what a relief confession (agreement with God) brings when its genuine.
Not saying the above to say that your Dad is guilty of some kind of sin every time he lights up. I think tobacco is strongly addictive and it is very difficult to quit.
The flip side of what I said concerning my Mom is this:
She suffered a great deal, largely as a result of her own doing, but this period in her life propelled her to search for and (praise God) find her own personal legitimate faith in the Lord. For this I am truly thankful as I am thankful that I was able to share the last few months of her life here and to be with her when it was time to go.
When you see a parent, someone who has been a rock solid haven, brought to such a vulnerable state -- you get a clearer picture of your own mortality. (I'm convinced that God supports our every breath.) This was both humbling and liberating for me and also propelled me into looking for a deeper relationship with God.
Thus for anyone who has faults, addictions, stuck in a destructive mode of living -- get them to Jesus. If they are already there, don't stop encouraging or loving them. He reveals His truths in time.
God bless you Paul. Hope I haven't gone too far here in relating something personal.
Barry |
